What does Youssef mean and where does it come from?
Youssef (يوسف) is an Arabic name that is the equivalent of the Hebrew name Joseph. The name suggests the concept of God's increase or addition. It is a widely used name across Arabic-speaking countries and has historical significance due to its biblical roots, where Joseph was a prominent figure. Th
Cultural significance
Youssef has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god increases.
Peak popularity
Reached #1040 in 2016 — currently #1479 in the US.
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Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Youssef?
Youssef works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Youssef Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Youssef Rose
Floral · soft ending
Youssef Mae
Sweet · timeless
Youssef Claire
French influence · crisp
Youssef Jane
Literary · strong
Youssef Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Youssef right now?
Falling — down 134 spots — currently #1479 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1479 | 122 | ▼ down 134 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #1345 | 140 | ▲ up 122 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #1467 | 123 | ▲ up 14 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #1481 | 114 | ▼ down 416 · -39% births |
| 2015 | #1065 | 186 | ▲ up 421 · +69% births |
| 2010 | #1486 | 110 | ▼ down 5 · +12% births |
| 2005 | #1481 | 98 | ▲ up 140 · +34% births |
| 2000 | #1621 | 73 | ▲ up 763 · +121% births |
| 1995 | #2384 | 33 | ▲ up 1042 · +83% births |
| 1990 | #3426 | 18 | ▲ up 1173 · +100% births |
| 1985 | #4599 | 9 | ▲ up 756 · +29% births |
| 1980 | #5355 | 7 | — |
The story of Youssef
Youssef is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1974. With 3,092 total births recorded, Youssef remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5355 in 1980 to #1479 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Youssef in 2016:
Youssef by decade
Youssef peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 11 | |
| 1980s | 90 | |
| 1990s | 374 | |
| 2000s | 924 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,579 | |
| 2020s | 114 | |
💎With 3,092 total births, Youssef is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Youssef?
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Famous people named Youssef
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Youssef (Arab poet)
Youssef carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.
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Youssef (historical Arab ruler)
Youssef held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.
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Youssef (Sufi mystic)
Youssef used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
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Youssef (Islamic scholar)
Youssef bore this name in the Golden Age of Islam, when Arabic names carried prestige across the known world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Youssef?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Youssef also consider these
How is Youssef written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Youssef?
Common questions about the name Youssef
What does the name Youssef mean?
Youssef means "God increases" — a name rooted in Arabic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Youssef?
Youssef is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Youssef?
Youssef originates from Arabic tradition. Arabic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Youssef a common or rare name?
Youssef is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Youssef a classic or a modern name?
Youssef has Arabic roots that go back many centuries, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.